Why is my dog a picky eater? You might think that your dog’s behavior is just his personality, but there could be something else going on.
A few common reasons for pickiness are: Your dog might want less commercial dog food and more snacks and treats. He might be bored with the same diet all the time.
If you’re a dog parent, then you know that finding the perfect food for your furry friend can be tricky. Some dogs are notoriously picky eaters, and it can be tough to find a food that they’ll love and that is also good for them.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best dog foods for picky eaters. We’ll discuss what makes these foods unique, and we’ll list some of the benefits that each one offers. So, if your pup is a fussy eater, read on for some great food suggestions!
Product
Details
Product Details
Natural Dry Dog Food
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Dry Dog Food
- FLAVOR: CHICKEN & VEGGIES
- SIZE: 40 POUND
Natural Ingredients Dog Food
Stella & Chewy’s Meal Mixers
- FLAVOR: BEEF
- SIZE: 1.12 POUND
Best Protein Dog Food
Nulo’s Limited Ingredient Dog Food
- FLAVOR: SALMON
- SIZE: 24 POUND
Best For Sensitive Stomachs
Solid Gold – Leaping Waters
- FLAVOR: COLD WATER SALMON
- SIZE: 4 POUND
Best Nutrients Dog Food
Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food
- FLAVOR: GRAIN FREE ADULT
- SIZE: 28 POUND
Grain Free Dry Dog Food
ORIJEN Dry Dog Food and Crunchy Dog
- FLAVOR: ORIGINAL
- SIZE: 25 POUND
Best For Adult Dog
NUTRO Hearty Stews
- FLAVOR: CHICKEN
- SIZE: 1.12 POUND
Grain Free Dog Food
CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food
- FLAVOR: LAMB
- SIZE: 22 LB
Best For Sensitive Skin
Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Skin & Stomach
- FLAVOR: SALMON & RICE
- SIZE: 30 LB
9 Best Dog Food for Picky Eaters
There are a lot of different opinions on what the best dog food for picky eaters is. Some people say that you should just give them their favorite food, while others recommend buying specialized dog food for picky eaters.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your dog. Here are some things to keep in mind when trying to choose the best dog food for your picky dog.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Chicken & Veggies recipe is made with real chicken and veggies, so your pets will get the nutrients they need to stay strong and active. The delicious recipe is sure to please even the most finicky of eaters.
This premium dry dog food is made with farm-raised chicken, and it contains all the added vitamins and minerals your pup needs to stay healthy. Plus, the natural ingredients make it irresistible to dogs of all ages.
It is made with high-quality ingredients, including real chicken as the 1st ingredient that is a high source of protein, also helps in supporting lean muscles and organs.
Other ingredients included are chicken meal, soya meal, chicken fat, whole corn, barley, brown rice, carrots, natural flavor, vitamin E, A supplement, citric acid, dried plain beet pulp, dried peas, etc.
Peas and brown rice are a highly digestible carbohydrate that provides energy to your dog while also helping with digestion. Chicken fat is a great source of omega-6 and 3 fatty acids that help keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy as well.
It’s also free of poultry by-product meal, filler, wheat, and wheat gluten ingredients so you can feel good about feeding it to your dog. It’s a grain-inclusive recipe and includes brown and ground rice that provides little fiber.
It comes in a convenient 40-pound bag, making it easy to stock up on food for your furry friend. It is equally good for all the breed sizes.
Key Features:
- All-natural ingredients
- Grain-inclusive recipe
- Small kibble size
- Affordable dog food
- Contains no fillers, additives, and poultry by-products
Pros:
- Real chicken protein is good for dogs with sensitivities and allergies
- Carbohydrates provide healthy digestion
- Most of the buyers are happy that their dogs love the taste of food
Cons:
- This food doesn’t have supplement probiotics. If you want more, you can buy them separately.
- Some reviewers feel dissatisfaction with this food because it has grains and their dogs are allergic to them.
- Some consumers complain of the greasiness of the food that the packing is also greasy along with the food.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Dry Dog Food
The price of “Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Dry Dog Food” varies, so check the latest price at
This top-of-the-line dog food topper contains 95 percent grass-fed beef, bone, and organs mixed with organic fruits and veggies. The additional ingredients are beef liver, beef kidney, pumpkin seeds, potassium chloride, organic cranberries, etc.
Stella & Chewy’s Meal Mixers are the perfect way to add some variety and excitement to your dog’s diet. These frozen-dried raw diet toppers are made in the USA with all ingredients sourced responsibly, and they make a great addition to your dog’s meals.
Simply add a scoop of Meal Mixers to dry dog food or kibble for extra nutrition and taste that your pup will love. These mixes are minimally processed and free from hormones, grains, antibiotics, peas, potatoes, and lentils. They’re also a 100% balanced diet for all life stages.
Meal mixers from Stella & Chewy’s make it simpler than ever to give your pet the genuine raw nutrition they require – there’s no preparation or rehydration necessary. Each bag contains enough food for several meals, so you can easily keep your pet well-nourished even when you’re on the go.
This natural food supports better appetite and digestion, healthy teeth and gums, relief from allergies, shiny skin and coat, increased energy and stamina, and a healthy immune system. With over 90% organic ingredients and no grains or gluten, it’s the perfect meal for your furry friend!
Key Features:
- Organic, cruelty-free meal
- Grain-free meal
- Fortified with added minerals and vitamins
- Human grade dog food
- Enriched with antioxidants and probiotics
Pros:
- It supports stamina, healthy digestion along with healthy weight.
- It also Improves teeth and gums health along with shiny coat and skin.
- The majority of people are satisfied that this food gives relief from allergies and provides a healthy immune system because it is grain-free.
- Some dog trainers claim that this food is human-grade and thus beneficial for their pets. It can be useful as training treats for their pets.
Cons:
- Expensive food meal
- Some buyers faced issues with the freshness of the food.
- Freeze-dried meat may have bacteria
Stella & Chewy’s Meal Mixers
The price of “Stella & Chewy’s Meal Mixers” varies, so check the latest price at
Nulo’s single-protein, grain-free recipe is ideal for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. Our premium kibble is made with only the finest ingredients and is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, its resealable bag helps keep your food fresh longer. It’s available in both 4 pound and 24-pound sizes.
Nulo’s limited ingredient dog food includes only turkey or salmon as the main protein source. This means your pup gets all the goodness of one type of meat, without any fillers or artificial additives.
The main ingredients in the Salmon recipe are salmon meal, deboned salmon, chickpeas, chickpea flour, canola oil, sweet potato, miscanthus grass, etc.
This pet food is made without chicken, corn, wheat, soy, eggs, peas, white potato, and tapioca. It features a balanced blend of nutrients to help keep your dog healthy and happy.
Each formula is packed with probiotics and fresh, natural ingredients, so your pup can enjoy optimal health. And because we know that all dogs are different, we offer a variety of high-protein, low-carb options to suit every pooch’s palate.
Key Features:
- Rich protein food with low carbs
- Contains probiotics
- No fillers and artificial additives
- Suitable for puppy and adult dog
- Made from a single source protein
Pros:
- This grain-free food is best for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies.
- It is made with safe and natural ingredients that are easy to digest.
- The majority of the buyers love this food because it gives relief to their dogs from diarrhea.
Cons:
- Some buyers find this food expensive.
- Kibbles are large, which is difficult for small breeds to eat.
Nulo’s Limited Ingredient Dog Food
The price of “Nulo’s Limited Ingredient Dog Food” varies, so check the latest price at
Solid Gold’s Leaping Waters with Cold Water Salmon & Vegetable is a great-tasting, healthful blend of probiotics, superfoods, and fatty acids that support your pet’s gut health and overall immune system.
This hearty dish is packed with high-quality cold water salmon which is known for its beneficial omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and coats. It is also easily digestible, making it an ideal food for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
This formula is made with real salmon as the primary ingredient, and it is free from chicken protein, soy, grains, and gluten.
Its main ingredients are Salmon, Salmon Meal, Ocean Fish Meal, Lentils, Chicken Fat, Tapioca, Pea Fiber, Dried Eggs, etc. This recipe is packed with 20 nutrient-rich superfoods, including pumpkin, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, broccoli, kelp, almond oil, and lentils.
This dry dog food is perfect for active adult dogs of all sizes, containing peas and chickpeas to provide fiber, protein, and important phytonutrients. It features healthy, monounsaturated fats such as canola oil, olive oil, and salmon oil to promote overall coat and skin health.
Key Features:
- Grain and gluten-free
- Contains probiotics and prebiotics
- No meat by-product meal
- Made in the USA
Pros:
- It is a budget-friendly dog food that is specially formulated for extra sensitive stomachs.
- It contains fatty acids that promote skin and coat health.
- The combination of probiotics and prebiotics cleanses and balances your pet’s gut.
Cons:
- The kibbles are hard to chew for dogs with dental problems.
- It doesn’t have a meat variety.
- According to some purchasers, this recipe contains chicken fat despite claiming to be a chicken-free meal.
Solid Gold – Leaping Waters with Cold Water Salmon & Vegetable
The price of “Solid Gold – Leaping Waters with Cold Water Salmon & Vegetable” varies, so check the latest price at
Dogs are carnivores, and they need plenty of protein in their diets to stay healthy. The High Prairie with ROASTED BISON and VENISON formula is packed full of real meat, making it a frontrunner in the race for best dog food.
With 32% protein, it’s perfect for helping to support joints, bones, and lean muscles. This food is packed with nutrients that will help your dog thrive, including minerals and vitamins from fruits and superfoods, as well as omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.
We know that the key to a healthy dog is a balanced diet, and the Taste of the Wild offers that perfect balance. That’s why each serving of the dry dog food includes species- Proprietary Probiotics K9 strain as well as prebiotics and antioxidants that support digestive health and immune system of your dog.
Its main ingredients are water buffalo, chicken meal, lamb meal, sweet potatoes, peas, chicken fat, roasted bison, beef, egg product, etc.
The wild dry dog food is formulated without any artificial flavors or colors, and it uses only quality ingredients from reliable and sustainable local and worldwide suppliers. The food is perfect for all kinds of dogs, from small breeds to larger dogs.
Key Features:
- Grain-Free adult formula
- Contains vitamins, probiotics, and antioxidants
- Natural and wild ingredients
- Has real meat as the first ingredient
- Made in the USA
Pros:
- It provides all the essential nutrients your dog needs to thrive.
- Helps in digestion, immune system, and overall dog’s health
Cons:
- The flavor might not be liked by some picky eaters.
- This food is not peas allergy-friendly.
Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food
The price of “Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food” varies, so check the latest price at
ORIJEN Original dog food is the perfect diet for dogs who love variety in their meals. This food is rich in fresh, whole animal ingredients like free-run chicken and turkey, cage-free eggs, and wild-caught fish. It’s a great choice for picky eaters, as they’ll never get bored of eating the same thing twice!
Its basic ingredients are deboned chicken, deboned turkey, whole eggs, whole Atlantic mackerel, chicken heart, chicken liver, etc.
With 85% quality animal ingredients, this food provides the nourishment dogs need according to their natural biological needs. With raw and fresh animal ingredients, such as meat, cartilage, organs, and bone, ORIJEN is the perfect grain-free diet for your pup.
ORIJEN uses only the freshest, regional ingredients in its recipes, so you can be sure your dog is getting the best possible nutrition. Plus, the Crunchy Dog treats are the perfect way to reward your furry friend!
Key Features:
- Whole animal ingredients
- High in protein
- Contains no wheat, soy, or corn
- Provides essential minerals, vitamins, and protein
Pros:
- It is gently freeze-dried food that locks all the goodness of the food.
- The buyer noticed that his dog was healing from skin allergies and rashes after having this food.
Cons:
- No added probiotics
- Some buyers find it an expensive dog food that has hard kibbles.
- Some others have also issues with the food freshness as they found that the food is moldy in sealed packaging.
ORIJEN Dry Dog Food and Crunchy Dog
The price of “ORIJEN Dry Dog Food and Crunchy Dog” varies, so check the latest price at
NUTRO Hearty Stews’ soft and wet food is rich in nutrients and full of flavor, made with only real and good quality ingredients. It’s perfect for both small and large adult dogs.
These stews are a great way to give your dog a delicious, nutritious meal. This canned food, made with real chicken, carrots, and peas, is perfect for dogs that love wet dog food. The convenient 12-pack means you’ll always have some on hand when your pup gets hungry.
Its main ingredients are chicken, chicken liver, chicken broth, pork broth, sunflower oil, dried peas, carrots, etc.
These stews are made with chicken (raised at farms as the first ingredient. The cuts in gravy create a delicious and balanced meal for your adult dog.
The stews are made in the USA with only the finest, all-natural ingredients, and they’re free from corn, wheat, soy, and other artificial additives. Plus, they’re perfect for picky eaters – your pet will love the taste of our stews!
Key Features:
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
- No artificial flavors and additives
- Grain-free formula
- Made in the USA
Pros:
- The majority of the purchasers are pleased with this food since it is a low-cost, delicious dinner for dogs.
- This food uses chicken in cuts, in gravy form, that is easily chewed and digested even for senior dogs.
Cons:
- It has gravy with little meat.
- One consumer is complaining that her dog seemed fatigued and started panting after having Nutro’s hearty stews.
NUTRO Hearty Stews
The price of “NUTRO Hearty Stews” varies, so check the latest price at
CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food is perfect for adult dogs who love the taste of real meat and need a grain-free diet with plenty of protein. This food is made with lamb protein as the first ingredient, which helps to build and maintain muscle mass.
This natural dog food is formulated with real ingredients and nutritious fruits and vegetables, giving your pup everything they need to thrive.
Other ingredients of this recipe are lamb, split peas, chicken meal, lentils, pork meal, fish meal, dried chicken, pea starch, etc.
This recipe is made with no wheat, corn, or soy and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It’s also designed to meet the nutritional needs of adult dogs of all breeds.
Key Features:
- Uses real meat as the first ingredient is used
- Natural dog food with added vitamins and minerals
- Protein-rich kibble
- Grain-free dry dog food
- No fillers and additives
Pros:
- It helps in maintaining muscle mass
- It can be served alone or mixed with CRAVE wet food.
- According to the buyers’ feedback, it’s most effective for dog digestion.
Cons:
- Crave’s high-protein food is not recommended for dogs who are overweight and with a history of pancreatitis.
- According to the reviews, a dog might have an allergy to pea ingredients in this dry food.
CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food
The price of “CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food” varies, so check the latest price at
This nutritionally balanced formula contains high-quality protein from salmon, plus rice and probiotics to help support your pup’s healthy digestion. It’s easy on their stomachs, making it a great choice for pups with occasional sensitivities.
This high-protein formula features oatmeal and includes real salmon as the first ingredient, ensuring that your pet gets the nutrients they need.
Its main ingredients are salmon, rice, barley, oatmeal, fish meal, canola meal, beef fat, salmon meal, dried yeast, sunflower oil, fish oil, vitamins, etc.
For immune and digestive health, this dry food is packed with guaranteed live probiotics, and it doesn’t contain any corn, wheat, or soy. Plus, it doesn’t contain any artificial colors or flavors, and it’s made without poultry by-products meal.
Key Features:
- Affordable price
- Features whole protein as the main ingredient
- A mixture of shredded moist food and kibbles
- Fortified with live probiotics
- Suitable for adult dogs having a sensitive stomach
- Veterinarian recommended formula
Pros:
- This is a wonderful alternative for dog owners who are dealing with a picky or prone-to-disease pup because of the included probiotics and easily digested components.
- It has fish oil that helps support dogs’ mobility and omega fatty acids to promote coat and skin health.
Cons:
- It might not be good for gluten-intolerant pups.
Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Skin & Stomach
The price of “Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Skin & Stomach” varies, so check the latest price at
Buyer Guide: What to Look for In Dog Food for Picky Eaters?
There are some considerations when buying best-tasting dog foods for picky eaters that could help your dog stay healthy when eating a new diet. You should also make sure to monitor these factors:
Quality Meat sources
Quality meat refers to meat that is high in protein and low in fat. If your dog is a picky eater, then this could be the best type of food for him. Look for whole meat as the first few ingredients, rather than meat by-products or substitutes.
Fat
When looking for the best food for picky dogs, you’ll also want to pay attention to the fat content. Avoid dog foods that are high in unhealthy fats, such as trans fats or saturated fats. Instead, look for dog foods that contain healthy animal fat, such as omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids can help improve your dog’s skin and coat health, as well as his cognitive function.
Natural Food
When it comes to the best tasting dog food for picky eaters, some people believe that you should only feed your dog natural foods. While this may be a good option for some dogs, it’s not always the best choice.
Some natural foods can be harmful to dogs if they’re not cooked properly or if they contain harmful ingredients. For example, onions can cause serious health problems in dogs, so you should never give them to your pet.
That’s why it’s important to do your research before switching your dog to a natural diet. Talk to your vet about what types of natural foods are safe for your dog.
The best way to find the right natural food is by doing your research or talking with other people who have done their research. Find out what they recommend so you can ask your vet about it as well. If your picky dog eats something new without any digestive issues, then that’s a good sign that you should continue to feed it to him.
Your vet can tell you about the possible health risks associated with certain natural diets as well as other potential problems that might be caused by switching to a different type of food.
Grain-free
Don’t always go for the cheapest dog food available. These types of foods are often made with lots of fillers and additives. They don’t contain many nutrients, so they may not be good choices for your picky dog. Instead, try to find a high-quality dry dog food that is grain-free and has limited ingredients. Grain-free foods are great because they don’t have the carbohydrates and fillers that many commercial dog food brands add to their recipes.
Grain-free is not always best for picky eaters, but it’s a good place to start. It has more protein than regular grain-based foods, so it’s easier for your dog to digest.
Taste
You’ll also want to pay attention to the taste of your dog’s food. If he has eaten commercial foods for a long time, then he could be used to strong flavors. When you switch him over to a healthier diet, his body will need some time to adjust. It may take several weeks before he enjoys the flavor of his food.
What about dog treats? You can also use dog treats to make mealtime more enjoyable for your picky eater. If you are currently feeding him commercial foods, then try some new brands of treats and snacks instead. Look for all-natural options that contain healthy ingredients like lean meat or vegetables.
Amount of Food:
It’s important to give your dog the right amount of food, so use the feeding guidelines on his new dog food. If he isn’t eating enough, try increasing the meals until you find what works for him. It’s also a good idea to have several small meals each day instead of two or three big ones.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of food as well. If he isn’t eating enough at dinner, then you can give him some kibble during the day so he is hungry for dinner. Keep an eye on his weight, though, to make sure that he isn’t gaining or losing too much.
FAQ's
If you’re having trouble getting your dog to eat his food, then he may be a picky eater. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as long as he’s getting the nutrients he needs from other sources. However, it can be frustrating when your dog won’t eat anything but his favorite food.
Dental Issues
If your pet is a picky eater, it’s important to rule out any dental issues that may be causing him to lose interest in his food. Poor oral health can lead to several health problems, so it’s important to get it checked out by a veterinarian.
There are several things you can do to help improve your pet’s dental health, including brushing his teeth regularly and providing him with chew toys or treats. You should also take him for regular checkups at the vet, so they can keep an eye on his oral health.
Digestive Issue
One common reason for being a picky dog is that the pet is having digestive issues and isn’t able to properly digest his food. This can be caused by many things, such as an illness, a food allergy, or a parasite.
If you have a picky dog, then it’s important to get your pet checked out by the vet first. Once you know that your pet isn’t suffering from any health issues, then it’s time to introduce him to new types of food.
Many pets enjoy the flavors of canned dog food, so you might want to try switching over if your pet is already eating kibble. If he refuses all types of dry dog food, then start feeding him small portions of canned food in the morning and at night. Gradually add more canned dog food to his diet until he is eating a mix of both kibble and canned food throughout the day.
The more natural options should be easier for your pet to digest, so look at the ingredient list before you buy any dog food or treats. Keep in mind that it can take several days or even weeks for some pets to fully adjust. If your pet isn’t eating his food within a few days, then try adding some new flavors as treats. This will make it easier for him to adjust and slowly get used to his new diet over time.
Conclusion:
Some pets simply have a fussy palate and don’t like the taste of most foods. This can be frustrating for both you and your pet.
The best way to determine why your pet is a picky eater is to take him in for a physical checkup. The vet can help determine if any underlying health issues could be causing his pickiness. It could be an illness that requires medication, so don’t keep feeding your dog different diets until he is healthy again.
If you have a fussy eater, what kinds of food does your pup like? Let us hear about it below so other readers will learn what works best too.
